Originating during the darkest chapter in Austria's history, the New Year's concerts have continually grown in popularity in the decades since, which can be attributed to the verve and creative energy of the compositions of the Strauss dynasty, as well as their authoritative interpretations. Today millions of people throughout the world draw joy and optimism for the New Year ahead through the light-hearted yet subtly profound character of this music. The National Radio Symphony Orchestra led by an American conductor, Karen Kamensek, Laurence Olivier Award winner for her performance of Echnaton Glass at the English National Opera,  is following the Viennese tradition with the matinee concert on the 5th of January at 12 pm, performing not only Eduard and Johann Strauss works, but also the overture to Orpheus in Offenbach's hell, špacírka from Dvořák's beloved Slavic Dances and a suite of Spanish dances from Massenet's little-known (regretfully) opera Le Cid. Hopefully, this lively yet nostalgic music will set the mood for 2020!